For Crohn's disease you may choose to see one or more of the following types of doctors:Primary Care PhysicianPrimary care refers to general medical care for routine or chronic illnesses, preventive care and minor injuries. The primary care physician is usually the first health-care professional a patient sees; the physician provides a referral to a specialist if necessary. The primary care physician, who typically works in private or group practice, may collaborate with other physicians as well as physician’s assistants and nurse practitioners. That allows a patient to see a familiar backup physician or other health professional if the primary care physician is unavailable. GastroenterologistA gastroenterologist specializes in digestive system disorders. Gastroenterologists see patients when they’re experiencing problems with the liver, gallbladder, stomach, intestines or pancreas. Gastroenterologists treat ailments such as Crohn’s disease, colitis, ulcers, cancer, gallbladder disease and heartburn. They also evaluate the digestive tract during colonoscopy and endoscopy exams.

InternistInternal medicine specialists focus primarily on treating adult medical disorders. Despite the name, they are schooled in treating the whole body, not just the internal organs, and see patients for a variety of conditions and complaints, including Crohn’s disease. Also known as internists, these doctors often work as general practitioners. Patients see an internist for an annual checkup and diagnosis, as well as for treatment and management of acute and chronic illnesses (including prescriptions for medications). Preventive medicine and patient education are often emphasized.

ProctologistColon-rectal surgeons, more commonly known as colorectal surgeons or proctologists, focus on disorders of the colon, small intestine, rectum and anus. These specialists are trained to perform colonoscopies that enable them to screen for cancers, polyps or ulcers. Colorectal surgeons also perform colostomies, in which the surgeon creates a new path from the colon to the abdomen to allow the patient to eliminate waste. In addition, colorectal surgeons can medically and surgically treat cancers, precancerous growths or fissures in the anal lining, and inflammatory disorders such as Crohn’s disease.

NutritionistNutrition is the study of food and how it affects the health of the body. Nutritionists can be physicians, public health officials, dietitians and others in the health-care field. Some experts may be involved in research on food production (studying, for example, genetically modified food and the use of additives), while others may concentrate on the benefits of certain diets on cholesterol, heart disease and chronic diseases such as Crohn’s disease. A good diet may ease the symptoms of Crohn’s disease and replace lost nutrients. Some hospitals and clinics employ clinical nutritionists to work with patients on diet and exercise plans to improve their health. PsychologistPsychologists are professionals who focus on patients’ mental and emotional health. Patients see psychologists for therapy but do not receive prescriptions for medication. Psychologists are not typically physicians, but they usually hold a Ph.D. or other advanced academic degree. Patients may see a psychologist for a variety of issues, including eating disorders, anxiety, depression or poor impulse control. But patients also may see one to discuss the emotional effects of chronic illness, such as Crohn’s disease. Treatment options can include counseling or psychotherapy. There are two principal branches of psychology: Applied psychology refers to clinical practitioners who deal with patients, whereas research or experimental psychology involves the scholarly study and/or teaching about the human mind (such as cognition and behavior).

Acupuncturist Acupuncturists are trained in a traditional form of Chinese medicine called acupuncture, which involves inserting thin, sterile needles into various points in the body to relieve pain, promote healing and improve physical, mental and emotional well-being. The body points correspond with energy channels (meridians) that are stimulated during treatments (usually once a week) and are considered pathways to a life-energy force called Qi. Some people with Crohn’s disease find that acupuncture eases their symptoms. Acupuncturists are highly regulated in the United States by the nonprofit National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM); even the needles are regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.